Public Square; Art and At-Risk Youth

KNME-TV (Television station : Albuquerque, N.M.) · August 23, 2012

What happens when kids get involved in theatre, art, poetry, dance, and music? A growing body of research indicates that these activities have profound cognitive impacts on students. They help boost their abilities in reading, memory, and math. They also increase student engagement. Yet, in policy debates, the arts are often viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity. In this month’s Public Square, young people, arts professionals, and legislators talk about how participation in the arts helps keep kids engaged in education and how to continue to offer such opportunities to New Mexico’s youth. Community leaders include Regina Chavez, Executive Director of Creative Albuquerque, Linda M. López, New Mexico State Senator, and Bill O’Neill, New Mexico State Representative. Guests: Megan Kamerick (Public Square Host), Sonya Tijerina (Senior, St. Pius X High School), Gus Pedrotty (Senior, Albuquerque High School), Barney Lopez (Manoa Project Alumnus), George San Miguel (Convention Services Manager, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Albuquerque), Carlos Contreras (Educator and Performer), Kevin R. Elder (Artistic Director, Tricklock Company), Kelsey Ann O’Keefe (General Manager, Keshet Dance Company), Robb Janov (Founder and Director, Rock and Rhythm Band), Marcos G. Baca (Program Director, Youth Development Inc.’s Mi Voz Media Program), Regina Chavez (Executive Director, Creative Albuquerque), Jonathan Wolfe, Ph.D. (Chief Scientist, Sgrouples.com), Bill O’Neill (State Representative, House District 15), and Nan Elsasser (Founder and Executive Director, Working Classroom).